By Cait Crudden
Long Island Ducks fans gathered at the team’s iconic baseball stadium for a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and, of course, America’s favorite pastime. Fan Day at the Long Island Ducks Baseball Stadium brought together enthusiasts of all ages to celebrate the sport they love and honor the team that has captured their hearts.
From the moment gates opened, the stadium buzzed with anticipation as fans streamed in, decked out in their finest baseball gear and sporting smiles from ear to ear. Children clutched baseball gloves in eager anticipation of catching a foul ball, while seasoned fans reminisced about past victories and unforgettable moments on the field.
The festivities kicked off with a lively pre-game meet and greet and delicious ballpark fare. Families and friends gathered around sharing stories and laughter as they soaked in the festive atmosphere. The scent of delicious ballpark food wafted through the air, adding to the nostalgic ambiance of the occasion.
As game time approached, the excitement reached a fever pitch as fans made their way to their seats, eagerly awaiting the first pitch. The stadium cheered as the players took to the field, greeted by the roar of the crowd and the waving of signs and flags.
Throughout the game, fans were treated to a spectacle of athleticism and skill as the Ducks faced off against their opponents. From towering home runs to acrobatic catches in the outfield, every play elicited cheers and applause from the stands, uniting fans in their passion for the game.
The Long Island Ducks defeated the California Dogecoin 12-1 in the second game of spring training at Fairfield Properties Ballpark.
But Fan Day was about more than just baseball—it was a celebration of community spirit and the special bond between the Long Island Ducks and their loyal supporters. Between innings, fans were treated to entertainment and activities, including mascot appearances, base running contests, and giveaways, keeping the energy levels high and the smiles wide.
For many fans, attending Fan Day was about more than just watching a game—it was a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts and share in the camaraderie of being part of the Ducks family. As the final innings ticked away on another memorable day at the ballpark, fans lingered in the stands, savoring the last moments of the game and relishing the sense of community that permeated the air. With a big win, Fan Day had brought fans together in a shared celebration of baseball and the special bond that unites them as Ducks faithful.
As fans made their way home, their hearts full of memories and their voices hoarse from cheering, they knew that they had been part of something truly special—a day dedicated to the timeless joys of baseball and the enduring spirit of community that defines the Long Island Ducks experience. And as they eagerly awaited Fan Day and look forward to Opening Day on Thursday night, they knew that they would be back, ready to cheer on their beloved team and celebrate the magic of America’s favorite pastime once again.
Long Island plated three runs in the first inning on Jackie Bradley Jr.’s two-run home run to right-center field and an RBI single to left by Hector Gomez. Four more runs came home in the fourth to extend the lead to 7-0. A sacrifice fly off the bat of Nick Heath, another two-run homer to right for Bradley Jr. and a solo homer to left by Frank Schwindel did the damage.
Aaron Antonini added an RBI single in the fifth to make it an 8-0 ballgame. A four-run frame in the seventh made it 12-0, with another RBI single from Antonini and a two-run single by German Tapia highlighting the inning. A sacrifice fly to right off the bat of Warli Garcia in the ninth got the Dogecoin on the scoreboard and rounded out the scoring.
Wei-Yin Chen started and threw three scoreless and hitless innings, walking two and striking out four. Chris Ellis followed with two scoreless frames, yielding one hit with four strikeouts. Emilio Marquez, Ramon Santos and Trevor Bettencourt each pitched a scoreless inning of relief as well. The Ducks pitching staff combined to allow just one run, three hits and four walks while striking out 13.
Antonini led the Flock offensively with four hits, two RBIs and two runs. Bradley Jr. added two hits, four RBIs, two runs and a walk, while Hector Gomez chipped in with three hits and an RBI.
The Ducks are entering their 24th season of play in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and play their home games at Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip. They are the all-time leader in wins and attendance in Atlantic League history, led all MLB Partner Leagues in attendance in 2023, and have sold out a record 706 games all-time. For further information, visit LIDucks.com or call 631-940-DUCK (3825).
